Press Release

Fed up with the State Government’s assault on our local council, John Lozano has announced he will be standing as an Independent for the Leichhardt Ward in the September Council Elections.

John is passionate about democracy and first became a community activist when the NSW Government introduced the two for one business vote for the City of Sydney elections. “The next day, I volunteered to assist Clover get re-elected,” he said. The Community spoke. The Clover Moore Independent team enjoyed a landslide victory.

Photo: George Fetting

When the Ashfield, Leichhardt and Marrickville councils were merged in May 2016, and an administrator appointed, John was outraged. “If they can’t rig the votes, why not abolish it [Council] altogether? The administrator is an ex-director from the NSW Department of Planning and a consultant on council amalgamations. I was furious!” recalls Lozano.

“I noticed that the WestConnex route just happened to fit perfectly within our new council boundaries. I had enough. I couldn’t remain silent anymore.”

Ever since the amalgamation John has been voicing concerns at council meetings. Speaking out over council’s inaction and calling out for transparency in negotiations with the State Government. “I’ve tried inducing in the unelected admin

istrator the same passion for our issues we should all expect from our elected representatives,” he said.

John Lozano and Benita Collings at the WestCONnex Lantern Procession,

22 July 2017. Photo: Duncan Baxter

John has been an active speaker and supporter on behalf of numerous anti-WestConnex groups including speaking at the recent NSW Senate Enquiry into Tolls.

“I’m passionate about democracy, public transport, sustainable development and listening to the community. I am not aligned to any party - a true independent.”

The Inner West Community is set to undergo substantial changes under the State Government’s urban growth strategy. “Now more than ever, we need strong negotiators who will be passionate advocates for the interest of our community and not representatives of their party’s policies. I am looking to bring greater transparency to our council, reduce political influence and give our community true representation.